Military Academy Nominations - FAQ

Frequently asked questions for those seeking a Military Academy nomination. You may also fill out a Military Academy Nominations Form.

What is a nomination?

Members of Congress may nominate applicants who meet the eligibility requirements established by law. A candidate may seek a nomination from the following:

  • A member of the U.S. House of Representatives who represents the congressional district in which the candidate resides
  • Both U.S. Senators from his or her state
  • Apply directly to the Vice-President of the United States

What are the basic eligibility requirements?

Each applicant for a nomination must meet the following eligibility requirements as of July 1st of the year of admission to an academy:

  • Age: Be at least 17 years old, but not have passed the 23rd birthday
  • Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen
  • Marital Status: Must be unmarried, not pregnant, and without legal obligation to support children or other dependents
  • Residence: Must reside within the boundaries of the 3rd Congressional District of Maryland.
  • Skill / Fitness: Must meet the medical, physical, and academic requirements of the Academy

Who do I contact to request an application?

Visit my application webpage here: https://elfreth.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations 

When do I apply for a nomination?

The nomination application period opens May 1, 2026 for those candidates who are high school juniors and will be seniors the following school year, or who have already graduated.

What is the deadline for completing a nomination file?

The deadline for submitting a nomination packet to the District Office is Friday, October 2, 2026 at 11:59pm.

What must be included in my nomination file?

A complete nomination file consists of the following items submitted by the candidate:

  • Current photo
  • Resume (no more than two pages)
  • A Motivational Letter, addressed to Congresswoman Sarah Elfreth, stating why you want to attend a service academy (1 page)

All can be uploaded when completing an application on my website here: https://elfreth.house.gov/services/military-academy-nominations 

The following must be sent directly by the applicant to Elfreth.Academy@mail.house.gov:

  • An Essay (Prompt below)
  • Copies of SAT/ACT/CLT Score Reports
    • Our office super scores these tests, just as the academies do.

The following must be sent to my office from a candidates counselor or other recommendation source. These can be sent via email to Elfreth.Academy@mail.house.gov: 

  • Minimum of three letters of recommendation
    • One of which must be from STEM Teacher.
  • High school transcript

What essays will I need to complete?

All candidates will be required to submit the Motivation Letter. Candidates are also required to send the following essay addressing the following prompt:

 

Describe a time when you demonstrated grit - the concept of passion meeting determination - in life. If you yourself haven’t demonstrated grit, describe a time when you witnessed someone close to you demonstrate grit and how that affected you.

This essay should be a maximum of 2 pages in length.

 

What happens after I have completed my nomination file?

Applicants who submit a completed nomination file will be scheduled for an interview in late October or early November.

What criteria is used in selecting candidates?

Nominations are based on a "whole person" evaluation. Factors such as academic achievements, extra-curricular activities, leadership skills, physical aptitude, character and motivation are taken into consideration and compared with other applicants.

How many academies are there?

There are five service academies.

Are the requirements the same for all of the service academies?

No. Although many of the qualifications are similar, each academy operates under its own admissions guidelines. Visit the academy of your choice via the websites noted for each academy's particular admissions qualifications. It is not necessary to seek a nomination to the Coast Guard Academy, as the U.S.C.G.A. accepts candidates based on their own testing criteria.

Who should I ask to write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?

Some of the people applicants typically seek recommendations from include:

  • Teachers
  • Counselors
  • Employers
  • Coaches
  • Clergy
  • Scout Leaders

A specific recommendation form is not required. A letter of recommendation is sufficient.

It is recommended that you focus on those that can speak to the 5 facets you will be evaluated on:

  • Motivation to Serve
  • Leadership Potential
  • Character
  • Community Service
  • Communication Skills

Will I automatically be selected by the academy after I receive a nomination?

No. You will be placed among a select group of nominees, and the academy of your choice will make the final decision. If selected, you will receive an offer of admission (an appointment) directly from the academy.

What if I choose more than one academy? Will I be limited to a single nomination?

No. You can be nominated to multiple academies depending on how well you have competed among this year's pool of candidates. It is also possible to win multiple appointments.

When will I know if I have been offered an appointment by an academy?

Academies will begin to notify candidates of their admission status in January. All offers of appointment are generally sent out by May.